Who Lives on Fisher Island, Miami Beach, Florida?
A private island in Miami, Florida, located 3 miles east of downtown Miami.
Fisher Island, located just off the coast of Miami, is known for its exclusivity and high-profile residents. This private island community is home to…
- Affluent Individuals
- Business Moguls
- Celebrities
- Professional Athletes
- International Elites
Some well-known people who have owned property there include…
- Oprah Winfrey
- Julia Roberts
It offers a luxurious lifestyle, with amenities like private beaches, golf courses, marinas, high-end restaurants, and spas, accessible only by ferry, helicopter, or yacht.
Is Fisher Island expensive to live in? What’s the Cost of living in Fisher Island, FL?
Yes, Fisher Island is one of the most expensive places to live in the United States. The exclusivity, amenities, and luxurious properties contribute to its high cost. Homes on the island range from multi-million-dollar condos to expansive estates, with some listings starting around $3 million and reaching over $40 million. Beyond property prices, residents also pay a substantial annual club membership fee (often over $250,000) along with additional maintenance fees and property taxes.
The island’s appeal is heightened by the privacy, security, and amenities, including private beaches, a golf course, a marina, and world-class dining and spa options, making it a highly sought-after, albeit costly, residence.
The cost of living on Fisher Island, FL, is extremely high, driven by the luxurious real estate, amenities, and exclusive lifestyle that the island offers. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:
- Housing:
- Condominiums and homes range from about $3 million for a smaller unit to over $40 million for larger or newer luxury properties.
- Average home prices are significantly higher than in surrounding Miami areas, often priced at $2,000+ per square foot.
- Membership Fees:
- Residents must join the Fisher Island Club, which has an initial membership fee upwards of $250,000, with annual dues typically around $20,000 or more.
- Utilities & Maintenance:
- Monthly maintenance fees for properties can range from $2,000 to $6,000 or higher, depending on the size of the unit.
- Utility costs, like electric and water, are above average, given the larger property sizes and energy-intensive amenities.
- Transportation:
- Access to Fisher Island is limited to ferry, helicopter, or private yacht. The ferry service comes with associated fees, and some residents even opt for personal boats or helicopters, which adds further to transportation costs.
- Groceries & Dining:
- Grocery costs are generally higher than average due to transportation expenses for goods.
- Fisher Island has upscale dining options, so meals can cost significantly more than in standard Miami restaurants.
- Property Taxes:
- Property taxes on the island reflect Miami-Dade County’s rates, generally around 2% of the property’s assessed value, which can result in annual taxes of $100,000 or more for high-value homes.
- Insurance:
- Given its island location, hurricane and flood insurance are necessary, with premiums significantly higher than in non-coastal areas.
The total cost of living in Fisher Island is among the highest in the U.S., often reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars annually when considering all expenses. It’s ideal for those seeking privacy and luxury but comes with a considerable financial commitment.
What attracts so many celebrities to Fisher Island?
Fisher Island’s allure for celebrities and high-profile individuals stems from its unique combination of luxury, privacy, and exclusivity:
- Privacy and Security: Access to Fisher Island is restricted to residents and their guests, with no public access allowed. The island can only be reached by private ferry, yacht, or helicopter, which ensures a level of privacy hard to find elsewhere. This controlled access and security allow celebrities to enjoy a peaceful lifestyle away from paparazzi and fans.
- Luxurious Amenities: The island is a self-contained oasis with amenities that cater to every luxury need, including a private beach, golf course, marina, tennis courts, spas, upscale restaurants, and a variety of leisure facilities. These amenities are exclusive to residents and their guests, offering a level of service and quality that’s ideal for high-profile individuals.
- Exclusivity and Prestige: As one of the wealthiest zip codes in the United States, Fisher Island offers a level of prestige that is highly attractive to celebrities. Living on the island is considered a symbol of status, and the island’s limited properties make it highly sought-after.
- Breathtaking Views and Natural Beauty: Fisher Island’s location just off Miami’s coast offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, Biscayne Bay, and the Miami skyline. The island’s natural beauty, combined with meticulously landscaped grounds, gives it a tranquil, resort-like atmosphere that many find irresistible.
- Proximity to Miami’s Attractions: Though isolated enough to ensure privacy, Fisher Island is a short ferry ride from Miami, giving residents easy access to the city’s vibrant nightlife, arts, and cultural scene. Celebrities can enjoy Miami’s excitement without the hassle of living in a highly public area.
- Exclusive Community: The island is home to a select community of high-net-worth individuals, including other celebrities, CEOs, and international elites. This exclusivity allows residents to mingle with people of similar status in a serene and private environment.
These factors combine to make Fisher Island one of the most desirable and celebrity-friendly residential spots in the U.S.